Legal Question in Personal Injury in Wisconsin
Settlement
Can you tell me if attorneys can give advancements on a pending settlement? Or can you tell me how to find this out?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Settlement
There are no rules that bar advances but they are rare.
There are orgs. that do advances but only when the
case has been evaluated by an atty. for assesment of value.
Re: Settlement
According to a book published by the State Bar of Wisconsin, Ethics and Professional Responsibility, "Acceptance is growing, although slowly, for the view that lawyers may assist clients with general living expenses during the course of representation. The propriety of this financial assistance is premised on the client remaining ultimately liable for payment." The book goes on to warn that such a loan raises a potential conflict of interest and that the client must be advised of such a conflict of interest at the time the loan is made.
Re: Settlement
There is nothing that I know of which precludes an attorney from doing so. However, I don't believe you will find many willing to do so since it is not a prudent business decision.